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Old March 3rd 09, 04:13 AM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Andy[_1_]
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Default Legal? - SPOT Helium Balloon Race

On Mar 2, 4:24*pm, Jim Logajan wrote:
Why not? Last I checked, balloon launchers had an equal right to use the
public airspace as anyone else. (In the U.S. part 101 contains the
regulations pertinent to safe operations of balloons.)


The operation described by the OP does not appear to be compliant with
101 subpart D. Perhaps he left out all the details that would make it
compliant. Perhaps he'd post again telling us how he intends to
comply.

I've been startled by party balloons when flying power planes in the
Phoenix area. *They wouldn't hurt if I hit one. *I don't relish the
idea of getting a spot through the prop or windshield.


I hate to break it to you, but you are more likely to run into a bird than
a balloon of any sort. Or even another manned aircraft.


Maybe that's because unmanned balloon operations are regulated by 101
subpart D. The flight of birds is, to the best of my knowledge,
unregulated.

Just to be clear - if the risk of using a public commons is too great for
you, you always have the option of not using it. If free balloons bother
you that much, don't fly.


I have never, while flying, seen an unmanned free ballon legally
operating inder 101 subpart D. The risk of meeting one does not
bother me.

Andy